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PERSONAL REASONS Desire to conduct research to satisfy curiosity (a major criterion for engaging in research—answering “why?”). More mature on leaving graduate program. Greater self-knowledge: “who am I and what can I do?”

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Where should I go to Grad School? Program – which is best for me? Geographic – where do I see myself living – comfort zone? Future – where do I want to be in 5 years – and what am I doing?

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What about program “Level?” MA only institutions Focus is on YOU at graduate level MA/PhD institutions Attention is split between MA and PhD students PhD only institutions As with MA-only, focus is on YOU

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Fitting in – Your goals Goal: What do you want to accomplish? FIT – how do you see yourself contributing to a program? Do your goals mesh well with program strengths? Are faculty doing what you are interested in?

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Student Questions Are current students happy? Are students completing program in timely manner? Are students getting positions they want after finishing?

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Who Pays? Professional Programs: there are fewer opportunities for funding support, but some do exist. Academic/Research Programs: Teaching Assistantships Research Assistantships Adminstrative Assistantships This one cuts across Prof./Academic areas

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What are you willing/interested in doing re. funding? – Teaching: What experiences have you had re. teaching? What do most entering students teach? Research: What topics/areas are you most interested in working with/in? Admin – what special skills do you have that may help in an administrative role? Who Pays?